Founders Wants to Put a Giant Flag on Top of its Building

In order to draw more local customers and out-of-towners, Founders Brewing Company wants to put an American flag, that's the size of a small apartment, on top of their building.

The flag pole would be 60-feet-tall and the flag itself would be 375 sq. feet (15' x 25'). However, the city of Grand Rapids has a zoning ordinance that says flags can't exceed 40 sq. feet (5' x 8') which is almost nine times what Founders is requesting.

Pioneer Construction

Not only is the flag over the limit but the flag itself would be 143 feet above grade and the city only allows 85 feet.

Currently, the city is re-working its zoning laws for the entire downtown area, especially with so many new additions proposed for the future.

Pioneer Construction

The flag would sit on the NW side of the brewery

The City Commission is meeting on January 12th to discuss the matter and if they will approve the request.

Do you think Founders should be allowed to put a flag on top of their building?